Crown backs wind farm plan | Manawatu-Wanganui News | Local News in Manawatu-Wanganui

The proposed Central Wind project has attracted a powerful supporter the Crown.

Environment Minister Trevor Mallard has submitted a 10-page submission in support of the controversial northern Rangitikei project.

Meridian Energy wants to erect 52 turbines on the border of the Rangitikei and Ruapehu districts.

A committee made up of Horizons, Rangitikei, and Ruapehu representatives and independent members is considering the resource consent application.

However, some local residents oppose the plan.

They think the turbines will spoil the natural beauty of the site, which lies between Taihape and Ohakune.

Mr Mallard's submission is consistent with the Government's investigation of alternative energy sources, "The Crown considers that wind power is a viable energy source; that its development will help ensure security of supply through providing additional generation capacity and diversification in electricity production methods; and that it is an environmentally responsible alternative to using fossil fuels for generation," it reads.

The submission says Central Wind will merge with the Government's 2007 Energy Strategy in three ways.

It would help securely deliver energy at competitive prices, and maximise the contribution of cost-effective renewable energy resources while safeguarding the environment.

It would also contribute to a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, Mr Mallard wrote.

Since changes were made to the Resource Management Act in 2005, the Crown has been able to make submissions on consent applications the minister considers to be of national importance.

This is the third time it has exercised this right.

Both previous occasions also concerned wind farms.

"It is important those making decisions under the Resource Management Act on renewable energy projects such as Meridian Energy's 'Central Wind' have information on the national energy implications and the effects of the proposal. The submission recognises the importance of renewable, low-carbon, energy generation and security of supply, and covers wind energy potential."

Mr Mallard acknowledged there may be some adverse effects, but he was confident these could be identified and handled without compromising the project.

"I have every faith that ordinary Resource Management Act processes and local decision-makers can deal with the environmental effects and any community concerns raised by the Central Wind proposal," he said.